Magnetite(Fe3O4), the oldest permanent magnet, is still attracting intense
studies due to its fascinating surface physical properties. Previous LEED
and STM experiments have reported reconstruction on Fe3O4(001) clean
surface, but the origin of this reconstruction is still under debate.
Hydrogen removes this reconstruction. LEED, HREELS, XPS are used to study
the hydrogen induced surface properties. Surface geometry change was
investigated by LEED-I(V) calculation and the structure refinements are
being done now. XPS experiments show evidences of OH species on the
hydrogen-covered surface, which is consistent with HREELS data, proving H
adatoms are bonded to the surface oxygen sites. This suggested the ratio of
Fe2$+$/Fe3$+$ on the surface is increased. This change is observed by Fe 2p
peak shift in XPS spectra. We will discuss the role hydrogen played in the
surface structure and physical properties change induced by reconstruction.

To cite this abstract, use the following reference: http://meetings.aps.org/link/BAPS.2014.MAR.J53.4